Exactly Like This (T.Kubis)

Tom Kubis’s signature big band masterwork, "Exactly Like This," captures the sparkling, high-energy essence of modern West Coast contemporary jazz writing. Emerging from the rich tradition of powerhouse Los Angeles studio arranging, Kubis has long been celebrated for his ability to inject razor-sharp wit, sophisticated harmonic motion, and irresistible swing into his charts. Written in the classic big band tradition yet entirely forward-looking, this composition showcases the sophisticated yet accessible writing style that made Kubis a staple for premier collegiate ensembles, military jazz bands, and elite professional aggregations worldwide. Stylistically anchored in a buoyant, driving medium-up swing feel, the chart radiates an upbeat, confident, and sophisticated energy. The harmonic language relies heavily on extended tertian extensions, clever chromatic voice-leading, and surprising tonal shifts that keep both performers and listeners thoroughly engaged. Kubis builds the arrangement with masterclass pacing, moving fluidly from intimate, rhythm-section-driven thematic statements into sprawling, harmonically dense brass and reed solis. The emotional arc transitions effortlessly from playful and swinging to an absolute powerhouse of intensity during the climax, driven by characteristically brilliant counterpoint. The structural architecture of the chart highlights the complete big band apparatus, giving every section a moment in the spotlight. The lead alto saxophone and lead trumpet navigate demanding, high-register lines that require exceptional stamina and precision, while the lower reeds provide a warm, foundational anchor. A standout feature of the arrangement is its meticulously crafted sax soli, which demands absolute stylistic unity, articulation matching, and dynamic control. Improvisational space is carved out for featured soloists—traditionally designated for tenor saxophone and piano—allowing performers to stretch out over crisp, modern blues-infused changes that reward fluent, linear thinking. Advanced high school ensembles with strong section players, college jazz orchestras, and professional big bands will find this chart an ideal vehicle for showcasing ensemble cohesion. While the technical demands are significant—particularly regarding fast-moving articulation, stylistic swing interpretation, and upper-register trumpet endurance—the intuitive logic of Kubis’s scoring makes the learning curve immensely rewarding. "Exactly Like This" delivers a masterclass in modern big band architecture, guaranteeing an unforgettable peak moment for any concert program or festival performance. Unlocking the brilliance of "Exactly Like This" requires rigorous attention to articulation, stylistic uniformity, and dynamic contrast from every section. The tempo must remain relentlessly steady; resist the urge to rush the shout choruses, as the infectious swing groove relies on a relaxed, behind-the-beat feel even at brighter tempos. Brass players should approach high-register passages with focused, centered air support rather than brute force, ensuring that the bright, brassy timbres blend rather than pierce. Pay close attention to the dynamic markings underneath the ensemble solis—the rhythm section must dynamically support, not overpower, the horns. Saxophones need to execute scalar passages with ultra-clean articulation, treating eighth-note lines with a consistent jazz phrasing approach (accenting the upbeats and ghosting unaccented notes where appropriate). Rehearsals should begin section by section, isolating the tricky syncopated figures before locking the ensemble together with the rhythm section's ride cymbal and hi-hat on beats two and four. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this arrangement? A: The chart is scored for a standard 16-instrument big band instrumentation, comprising 5 saxophones (Alto 1, Alto 2, Tenor 1, Tenor 2, Baritone), 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, and a standard 3-piece rhythm section (piano, bass, drum set) alongside a full conductor score. Q: What is the difficulty level of "Exactly Like This"? A: This arrangement is rated as advanced, making it best suited for college jazz orchestras, advanced high school bands, and professional ensembles due to its demanding lead trumpet ranges, intricate ensemble figures, and fast-moving harmonic structures. Q: What is the musical style and historical background of this piece? A: Composed and arranged by Tom Kubis, the piece is written in a bright, contemporary West Coast medium-up swing style that channels the sophisticated energy of modern Los Angeles studio big bands. Q: What makes this Tom Kubis arrangement unique? A: It features Kubis's trademark sophisticated harmonic voicings, intricate counterpoint, a tightly crafted saxophone soli, and a powerhouse shout chorus that brilliantly highlights every section of the big band. Q: What is the performance duration and tempo of the arrangement? A: While performance time varies based on the length of improvised solo choruses, the arrangement is set at an energetic, driving medium-up swing tempo designed to keep momentum high from the opening measure to the final chord.